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06, Nov, 2005

Rod Donald’s death a loss to Democracy and the Environment

Category: ECO Inc

Green MP Rod Donald will be sorely missed by those with a commitment to a more democratic New Zealand, to the environment and social justice. ECO joins his family, friends and close associates in mourning his tragic death, says Cath Wallace, co-chair of the Environment and Conservation Organisations of NZ Inc, ECO.

One of Rod’s most lasting contributions is the move from the First Past the Post voting system to the Mixed Member Proportional Representation, MMP system. He campaigned hard for electoral change and he was one of the people who put huge effort and analysis into achieving a more democratic New Zealand.

We worked with Rod on a range of issues prior to the formation of the Greens. He campaigned to save native forests, for Antarctic protection and for a just and sustainable world. He was an internationalist who wanted a just world, and he cared about the environmental, economic and social direction of New Zealand.

He wanted sustainable development in the best sense of the term. He was a man of integrity and passion who made many sacrifices of himself in his quest for a better world.

ECO is a non-partisan organisation of 62 member organisations. We are grateful to all those in political parties who work for the environment, for conservation and for social justice. Rod Donald is one who decided that the environment needed a dedicated voice in Parliament. We are grateful for his energy, passion and commitment.

ECO extends its condolences to Rod Donald’s family, to his friends and his colleagues, and we join them in their great sorrow at his death. He has made a major contribution to New Zealand. ENDS

For further information, contact Cath Wallace, 021-891-994 or 04-389-1696